Medical Marijuana and the DOT: Understanding the Guidelines

Twenty eight states and the District of Columbia have legislation legalizing the use of medical marijuana with certain guidelines and stipulations. Therefore, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has issued guidelines for federal prosecutors in these states.

However, officials at the Department of Transportation (DOT) have made it clear that DOJ guidelines do not have any bearing on the existing DOT drug testing program. Therefore, a Medical Review Officer (MRO) cannot consider a drug/controlled substance test as negative even if a qualified physician verifies the employee in question is authorized to use marijuana medically.

The DOT has stated that its mission is to make the public transportation system as safe as possible, and making exceptions for medical marijuana does not fall under this goal.

If you take a drug test and the result is positive, there is no turning back. The DOT has made its position on controlled substance use clear. It’s important for all CMV drivers to keep the laws in mind the laws, even if you reside in one of the 28 states where medical marijuana use is legal. Think before you risk your job and your career!